Scottsdale Convention Visitors Bureau
North Scottsdale
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Arizona Desert Events


When the pavement ends the adventure begins! Nature & Historical Tours, Competitive Photo Rallies, Cookouts & more! Experience the Wild West the way it looked 100 years ago. Climb aboard a custom rigged 4x4 and head out into the lushest desert in the world, abundant with plant & wildlife. Explore the rugged trails that are home to the second most diverse eco system in the world. Enjoy the splendor of the majestic saguaro, indigenous only to this region of the Sonoran Desert. Of course you’ll hear a tall tale or two from your Cowboy& Native American guides. But, you’ll also learn the true secrets of its past inhabitants. If you’re a photography buff or just a casual snapper you’ll find spectacular photo opportunities at every turn.

Offer Title Offer Valid
Children Half Price Desert Nature Tour 09-08-2009 - 05-31-2010
Receive 20% off our Sonoran Desert Family Adventure 09-08-2009 - 05-31-2010


  • Attractions & Adventures

  • Arizona Cactus Blooms Adventure

    Arizona Cactus Blooms Adventure

    9/8 - 5/31
    Don't miss this opportunity to view one of the most incredible displays of Arizona desert cactus blooms. This time of year the desert is bursting with brilliant splashes of color and the foothills are filled with bountiful blooms from lupine to Indian paintbrush, from fiddleneck to fairy duster, just to name a few. Join our guides in the hunt for wildflowers that in past years been elusive - make sure you bring your camera! Tours are limited due to the short blooming season.

    So book now to take advantage of this seasonal natural beauty.
    A complementary wildflower packet is available for each guest to take home with them!

    For more information, visit our website.
  • Arizona Desert Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    Arizona Desert Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    9/9 - 5/31
    Climb aboard a custom rigged 4x4 and travel back in time to the “Old West”.

    The Sonoran Desert, often referred to as the "living desert", boasts an abundance of plant and animal life like no other desert in the world. Visitors are constantly amazed to discover how lush and green our desert actually is, and at the incredible number of animal species that make this desert their home.

    Undoubtedly, the best way to experience the spectacular beauty of the Sonoran Desert is up close and personal on your own private four-wheelin' adventure. From the front door of the hotel, authentic cowboy and Native American guides in western and traditional garb will take you north to the magnificent Granite Mountain trails where the effects of man have not yet spoiled the natural desert landscape.

    Expert guides knowledgeable in Arizona History and legend, conduct entertaining and informative nature walks identifying the numerous varieties of cacti and other desert plants to be found. They will explain how the indigenous peoples learned to utilize these tremendous resources for food, clothing and shelter. Occasionally, visitors may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of an eagle, jackrabbit, coyote or the elusive javelina... and, yes, even the infamous rattlesnake of which there are more than a dozen varieties in the desert southwest.

    After your fun in the desert you'll enjoy some authentic cowboy grub under a star filled desert sky at our private scenic cookout site complete with bathrooms and rain backup.

    Singing around the campfire is mandatory. Even the coyotes like to join in.

    Minimum of 10 guests required.
    Valid through May 31, 2010
  • Arizona Sunset Tour & Cowboy Dinner

    Arizona Sunset Tour & Cowboy Dinner

    9/8 - 5/31
    WHEN THE PAVEMENT ENDS THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!

    Climb aboard our premier custom rigged vehicles and travel back in time to the “Old West” on a four-wheelin' adventure.

    The Sonoran Desert, often referred to as the "living desert", boasts an abundance of plant and animal life like no other desert in the world. Visitors are constantly amazed to discover how lush and green our desert actually is, and at the incredible number of animal species that make this desert their home.

    From the front door of the hotel, authentic cowboy and Native American guides in western and traditional garb will take you north to the magnificent Granite Mountain trails where the effects of man have not yet spoiled the natural desert landscape.

    Expert guides, knowledgeable in Arizona history and legend, conduct entertaining and informative nature walks identifying the numerous varieties of cacti and other desert plants indigenous to the area. They will explain how the native peoples learned to utilize these tremendous resources for food, clothing and shelter. Visitors are usually lucky enough to catch glimpses of hawks, jackrabbits, coyotes and the elusive javelina... and, yes, even the infamous rattlesnake of which there are more than a dozen varieties in the desert southwest could make an appearance.

    This Off-Road Desert Excursion is a must for the first-time visitor and frequent traveler alike. There is truly no better way to experience the desert with a little fun and excitement thrown in for good measure.

    After your desert adventure you’ll enjoy some cowboy grub at our authentic western restaurant.
    This famous steakhouse was once a general store and rest stop for weary travelers.
    Mesquite grilled steaks & chicken, country music and a laid back western atmosphere await you!
  • AZ Desert Team Building Rally

    AZ Desert Team Building Rally

    9/9 - 5/31
    High Sonoran Desert Photo Rally
    (Appropriate footwear required)
    Competitive team building fun for the entire group!
    Groups are first divided into teams of 5 or 10 depending upon the size of the total group.
    The fun begins as each team is given a Polaroid camera, a set of clues and the chance to unleash their imagination. After departing from the Resort in our 4x4 desert vehicles the team will work together to unravel a series of clues that will lead them to the destinations they seek. Once they arrive they will take a unique photograph of their team. Each team will receive points for composition and creativity of their photos and creating a team name. When they reach their final destination, teams will be given the opportunity to obtain bonus points by performing a team cheer that captures the essence of their team spirit. When all is said and done scores will be tallied, the winners announced and prizes for the winning team will be presented.
    A cowboy desert cookout can be added to your event for groups with 10 guests or more.
  • Birdwatching in the Sonoran Desert

    Birdwatching in the Sonoran Desert

    9/8 - 5/31
    Join us for a guided birdwatching adventure through the lower Sonoran Desert. Be one with nature as we travel lush desert trails with amazing views in custom off-road tour vehicles. Enjoy leisurely nature hikes to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Many species thrive in this area dense with trees and cactus, perfect for nesting and feeding. Owls, Hawks, Cactus Wrens, Gila Woodpeckers, Quails, Cardinals and Roadrunners just to name a few are among the hundreds of species calling this desert their home.

    Hiking Shoes or Sneakers Required
    Duration Approximately 3.5 Hours
    Soft Drinks and Bottled Water Included
    Bring along your binoculars or borrow ours.
  • Dining & Nightlife

  • Arizona Corporate Desert Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    Arizona Corporate Desert Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    9/9 - 5/31
    Climb aboard a custom rigged 4x4 and travel back in time to the “Old West”.

    The Sonoran Desert, often referred to as the "living desert", boasts an abundance of plant and animal life like no other desert in the world. Visitors are constantly amazed to discover how lush and green our desert actually is, and at the incredible number of animal species that make this desert their home.

    Undoubtedly, the best way to experience the spectacular beauty of the Sonoran Desert is up close and personal on your own private four-wheelin' adventure. From the front door of the hotel, authentic cowboy and Native American guides in western and traditional garb will take you north to the magnificent Granite Mountain trails where the effects of man have not yet spoiled the natural desert landscape.

    Expert guides knowledgeable in Arizona History and legend, conduct entertaining and informative nature walks identifying the numerous varieties of cacti and other desert plants to be found. They will explain how the indigenous peoples learned to utilize these tremendous resources for food, clothing and shelter. Occasionally, visitors may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of an eagle, jackrabbit, coyote or the elusive javelina... and, yes, even the infamous rattlesnake of which there are more than a dozen varieties in the desert southwest.

    After your fun in the desert you'll enjoy some authentic cowboy grub under a star filled desert sky at our private scenic cookout site complete with bathrooms and rain backup.

    Singing around the campfire is mandatory. Even the coyotes like to join in.

    Minimum of 10 guests required.
    Valid through May 31, 2010
  • Arizona Desert Sunset Tour and Cowboy Dinner

    Arizona Desert Sunset Tour and Cowboy Dinner

    9/8 - 5/31
    WHEN THE PAVEMENT ENDS THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!

    Climb aboard our premier custom rigged vehicles and travel back in time to the “Old West” on a four-wheelin' adventure.

    The Sonoran Desert, often referred to as the "living desert", boasts an abundance of plant and animal life like no other desert in the world. Visitors are constantly amazed to discover how lush and green our desert actually is, and at the incredible number of animal species that make this desert their home.

    From the front door of the hotel, authentic cowboy and Native American guides in western and traditional garb will take you north to the magnificent Granite Mountain trails where the effects of man have not yet spoiled the natural desert landscape.

    Expert guides, knowledgeable in Arizona history and legend, conduct entertaining and informative nature walks identifying the numerous varieties of cacti and other desert plants indigenous to the area. They will explain how the native peoples learned to utilize these tremendous resources for food, clothing and shelter. Visitors are usually lucky enough to catch glimpses of hawks, jackrabbits, coyotes and the elusive javelina... and, yes, even the infamous rattlesnake of which there are more than a dozen varieties in the desert southwest could make an appearance.

    This Off-Road Desert Excursion is a must for the first-time visitor and frequent traveler alike. There is truly no better way to experience the desert with a little fun and excitement thrown in for good measure.

    After your desert adventure you’ll enjoy some cowboy grub at our authentic western restaurant.
    This famous steakhouse was once a general store and rest stop for weary travelers.
    Mesquite grilled steaks & chicken, country music and a laid back western atmosphere await you!
  • Family Friendly

  • Arizona Desert Sunset Tour and Cowboy Dinner

    Arizona Desert Sunset Tour and Cowboy Dinner

    9/8 - 5/31
    WHEN THE PAVEMENT ENDS THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!

    Climb aboard our premier custom rigged vehicles and travel back in time to the “Old West” on a four-wheelin' adventure.

    The Sonoran Desert, often referred to as the "living desert", boasts an abundance of plant and animal life like no other desert in the world. Visitors are constantly amazed to discover how lush and green our desert actually is, and at the incredible number of animal species that make this desert their home.

    From the front door of the hotel, authentic cowboy and Native American guides in western and traditional garb will take you north to the magnificent Granite Mountain trails where the effects of man have not yet spoiled the natural desert landscape.

    Expert guides, knowledgeable in Arizona history and legend, conduct entertaining and informative nature walks identifying the numerous varieties of cacti and other desert plants indigenous to the area. They will explain how the native peoples learned to utilize these tremendous resources for food, clothing and shelter. Visitors are usually lucky enough to catch glimpses of hawks, jackrabbits, coyotes and the elusive javelina... and, yes, even the infamous rattlesnake of which there are more than a dozen varieties in the desert southwest could make an appearance.

    This Off-Road Desert Excursion is a must for the first-time visitor and frequent traveler alike. There is truly no better way to experience the desert with a little fun and excitement thrown in for good measure.

    After your desert adventure you’ll enjoy some cowboy grub at our authentic western restaurant.
    This famous steakhouse was once a general store and rest stop for weary travelers.
    Mesquite grilled steaks & chicken, country music and a laid back western atmosphere await you!
  • Birdwatching in the Sonoran Desert

    Birdwatching in the Sonoran Desert

    9/8 - 5/31
    Join us for a guided birdwatching adventure through the lower Sonoran Desert. Be one with nature as we travel lush desert trails with amazing views in custom off-road tour vehicles. Enjoy leisurely nature hikes to get up close and personal with the wildlife. Many species thrive in this area dense with trees and cactus, perfect for nesting and feeding. Owls, Hawks, Cactus Wrens, Gila Woodpeckers, Quails, Cardinals and Roadrunners just to name a few are among the hundreds of species calling this desert their home.

    Hiking Shoes or Sneakers Required
    Duration Approximately 3.5 Hours
    Soft Drinks and Bottled Water Included
    Bring along your binoculars or borrow ours.
  • Meeting Planner Promotion

  • Arizona Cactus Blooms Adventure

    Arizona Cactus Blooms Adventure

    9/8 - 5/31
    Don't miss this opportunity to view one of the most incredible displays of Arizona desert cactus blooms. This time of year the desert is bursting with brilliant splashes of color and the foothills are filled with bountiful blooms from lupine to Indian paintbrush, from fiddleneck to fairy duster, just to name a few. Join our guides in the hunt for wildflowers that in past years been elusive - make sure you bring your camera! Tours are limited due to the short blooming season.
    So book now to take advantage of this seasonal natural beauty.
    A complementary wildflower packet is available for each guest to take home with them!

    For more information, visit our website.
  • Arizona Desert Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    Arizona Desert Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    9/8 - 5/31
    Climb aboard a custom rigged 4x4 and travel back in time to the “Old West”.

    The Sonoran Desert, often referred to as the "living desert", boasts an abundance of plant and animal life like no other desert in the world. Visitors are constantly amazed to discover how lush and green our desert actually is, and at the incredible number of animal species that make this desert their home.

    Undoubtedly, the best way to experience the spectacular beauty of the Sonoran Desert is up close and personal on your own private four-wheelin' adventure. From the front door of the hotel, authentic cowboy and Native American guides in western and traditional garb will take you north to the magnificent Granite Mountain trails where the effects of man have not yet spoiled the natural desert landscape.

    Expert guides knowledgeable in Arizona History and legend, conduct entertaining and informative nature walks identifying the numerous varieties of cacti and other desert plants to be found. They will explain how the indigenous peoples learned to utilize these tremendous resources for food, clothing and shelter. Occasionally, visitors may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of an eagle, jackrabbit, coyote or the elusive javelina... and, yes, even the infamous rattlesnake of which there are more than a dozen varieties in the desert southwest.

    After your fun in the desert you'll enjoy some authentic cowboy grub under a star filled desert sky at our private scenic cookout site complete with bathrooms and rain backup.

    Singing around the campfire is mandatory. Even the coyotes like to join in.

    Valid through May 31, 2010

    Visit our website.
  • Teambuilding Adventure

    Teambuilding Adventure

    9/8 - 5/31
    High Sonoran Desert Photo Rally
    (Appropriate footwear required)
    Competitive team building fun for the entire group!
    Groups are first divided into teams of 5 or 10 depending upon the size of the total group.
    The fun begins as each team is given a Polaroid camera, a set of clues and the chance to unleash their imagination. After departing from the Resort in our 4x4 desert vehicles the team will work together to unravel a series of clues that will lead them to the destinations they seek. Once they arrive they will take a unique photograph of their team. Each team will receive points for composition and creativity of their photos and creating a team name. When they reach their final destination, teams will be given the opportunity to obtain bonus points by performing a team cheer that captures the essence of their team spirit. When all is said and done scores will be tallied, the winners announced and prizes for the winning team will be presented.
    A cowboy desert cookout can be added to your event for groups with 15 guests or more.

    For more information, visit our website.
  • Member Promotion

  • Arizona Cactus Blooms Adventure

    Arizona Cactus Blooms Adventure

    9/8 - 5/31
    Scottsdale CVB members don't miss this opportunity to view one of the most incredible displays of Arizona desert cactus blooms. This time of year the desert is bursting with brilliant splashes of color and the foothills are filled with bountiful blooms from lupine to Indian paintbrush, from fiddleneck to fairy duster, just to name a few. Join our guides in the hunt for wildflowers that in past years been elusive - make sure you bring your camera! Tours are limited due to the short blooming season.
    So book now to take advantage of this seasonal natural beauty.
    A complementary wildflower packet is available for each guest to take home with them!

    For more information, visit our website.
  • Arizona Sunset Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    Arizona Sunset Tour & Cowboy Cookout

    9/8 - 5/31
    WHEN THE PAVEMENT ENDS THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!

    Climb aboard our premier custom rigged vehicles and travel back in time to the “Old West” on a four-wheelin' adventure.

    The Sonoran Desert, often referred to as the "living desert", boasts an abundance of plant and animal life like no other desert in the world. Visitors are constantly amazed to discover how lush and green our desert actually is, and at the incredible number of animal species that make this desert their home.

    From the front door of the hotel, authentic cowboy and Native American guides in western and traditional garb will take you north to the magnificent Granite Mountain trails where the effects of man have not yet spoiled the natural desert landscape.

    Expert guides, knowledgeable in Arizona history and legend, conduct entertaining and informative nature walks identifying the numerous varieties of cacti and other desert plants indigenous to the area. They will explain how the native peoples learned to utilize these tremendous resources for food, clothing and shelter. Visitors are usually lucky enough to catch glimpses of hawks, jackrabbits, coyotes and the elusive javelina... and, yes, even the infamous rattlesnake of which there are more than a dozen varieties in the desert southwest could make an appearance.

    This Off-Road Desert Excursion is a must for the first-time visitor and frequent traveler alike. There is truly no better way to experience the desert with a little fun and excitement thrown in for good measure.

    We have a variety of off road activities including nature and historical tours, leisurely sightseeing and competitive team building photo rallies. Scenic horseback rides and river rafting can also be combined with our desert tours. We offer breakfast, lunch and sunset cowboy cookouts for groups with as few as 10 guests at a scenic cookout area, complete with bathrooms and rain backup.
  • Teambuilding Desert Rally

    Teambuilding Desert Rally

    9/8 - 5/31
    High Sonoran Desert Photo Rally
    (Appropriate footwear required)
    Competitive team building fun for the entire group!
    Groups are first divided into teams of 5 or 10 depending upon the size of the total group.
    The fun begins as each team is given a Polaroid camera, a set of clues and the chance to unleash their imagination. After departing from the Resort in our 4x4 desert vehicles the team will work together to unravel a series of clues that will lead them to the destinations they seek. Once they arrive they will take a unique photograph of their team. Each team will receive points for composition and creativity of their photos and creating a team name. When they reach their final destination, teams will be given the opportunity to obtain bonus points by performing a team cheer that captures the essence of their team spirit. When all is said and done scores will be tallied, the winners announced and prizes for the winning team will be presented.
    A cowboy desert cookout can be added to your event for groups with 15 guests or more.